Argument Component Identification Flashcards
7 cards from real LNAT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Argument Component Identification flashcards as text
In the passage: 'Traffic fatalities have declined since seat belt laws were enacted. Therefore, mandatory seat belt laws save lives.' What role does the first sentence play?
Answer: Premise
The first sentence is a premise — it provides the factual evidence that supports the conclusion stated in the second sentence.
Which of the following best describes an 'intermediate conclusion' in an argument?
Answer: A statement that functions both as a conclusion drawn from earlier premises and as a premise for a later conclusion
An intermediate conclusion is a sub-conclusion that is supported by earlier evidence and itself acts as a premise supporting the main conclusion.
The phrase 'it must be acknowledged that' typically signals which argument component?
Answer: Concession to a counter-argument
Phrases like 'it must be acknowledged that' signal a concession — the author admits a point that favors the opposing view before reasserting their own position.
Examine: 'All citizens deserve equal legal representation. Public defenders are underfunded. Therefore, the current system violates citizens' rights.' Which statement is the main conclusion?
Answer: Therefore, the current system violates citizens' rights.
The main conclusion is 'the current system violates citizens' rights' — it is what the two preceding premises jointly establish.
A passage states: 'Some argue that free trade reduces domestic jobs, but evidence shows it creates more jobs overall than it destroys.' What is the function of the clause beginning 'Some argue'?
Answer: It is a counter-argument that the author then rebuts.
The 'some argue' clause presents an opposing viewpoint, which the author immediately counters with evidence — making it a counter-argument the author rebuts.
Which element is LEAST likely to be a structural component of a formal argument as tested on the LNAT?
Answer: A rhetorical exclamation expressing enthusiasm
A rhetorical exclamation is an emotive device, not a logical component — arguments consist of premises, conclusions, assumptions, and sometimes counter-arguments.
In the statement 'Since renewable energy costs have fallen sharply, and since energy independence is a national priority, we should invest heavily in renewables,' the word 'since' marks what type of component?
Answer: Premise indicators
'Since' is a classic premise indicator word, signaling that the clauses following it provide reasons in support of the conclusion.